Ocular Manifestations of Vitamin Disorders

Abstract

Vitamins are essential micronutrients that must be obtained from the diet. Deficiencies of vitamins A, B complex, C, D, E, and K can cause nutritional disorders associated with ophthalmic manifestations. Signs of deficiency can occur in the cornea, retina, or optic nerve, and may result in vision loss if no appropriate treatment is given. The ocular signs of vitamin deficiency are seen predominantly in developing countries, but patients with absorptive defects and/or severely restricted diets are also at risk for developing the symptoms. The systemic and ocular effects of deficiencies and excesses of specific vitamins, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of each vitamin disorder, are discussed.